50. Party
The summer breeze, full of warmth without being sticky-humid, tickled Sally's fur. It ruffled the skirt of her billowing sundress with an airy gentleness, as if whispering hello to her. The sun offered a subtle warmth instead of its usual intense, oppressive heat, a definite and most welcome change of pace. A party hat, an explosive array of colors like that of a rainbow, sat perfectly upon her head, much like the jeweled crowns she was so accustomed to wearing. The cheerful noises of her friends' voices resonated pleasantly within her ears, a smile blooming on her face like flower petals in spring.
She was another year older, and she felt beyond blessed and happy with her life. Surrounded by her friends and family, and she was so overjoyed that her family went out of their way to make attend her birthday party, she could easily feel the love. Swallowing down another forkful of her delicious slice of birthday cake, courtesy of the combined efforts of Miss Vanilla, Cream, and Amy, she hummed in delight, pleased by how soft and sweet and oh so wonderful it tasted.
"Happy birthday, princess." Sally blushed, her cheeks a dusty pink. She knew that voice well. Heart fluttering like butterfly wings, she turned around, her smile brighter than the sun's rays as she stared at the love of her life. She tugged him forward, pressing her lips against his in a kiss full of love, one he easily returned.
"Thank you so much, Shadow!" Shadow smiled, tucking stray strands of her auburn hair back in place. His touch elicited shivers down her spine, something that didn't go unnoticed by him, for his smile widened.
"I brought you something," Shadow said, voice soft, full of sincerity. Eyebrows furrowed, Sally gave him a questioning look. She thought he had already gave her her birthday gift. Perhaps this was another one, a part two? She took the offered box, noticing how small, but pretty it was. It was black velvet, and it was soft to the touch. A neat, blue and red bow sat on top of it, and she untied it and opened it, peering inside, mindful of Shadow's expectant gaze on her.
Her jaw promptly dropped, eyes impossibly wide. Trembling, she looked up at her smiling boyfriend. She allowed him to slip the beautiful, sparkling ring upon the proper hand and finger. Eyes glistening with tears that threatened to spill, she hugged him something fierce, whispering a breathless yes to his unspoken question.
It looked like they'd be planning a celebration of a different sort later on in the year. They were both looking forward to it.